OLD and new members of Tillicoultry Girls’ Brigade had a great time celebrating the company’s 40th birthday recently.
The local branch was formed in 1976 simply because it seemed a good idea. As proof, its ranks soon grew to 100 girls. There was already a Boys’ Brigade in the area and the inspiration to start may have come from that.
A service and party were held in Tillicoultry Parish Hall on September 28 to which brigaders past and present were invited. Around 80 came to meet up with old friends. The present company of 35 girls led the parade and enjoyed the party.
Company captain Christine Pairman said: “It was a brilliant evening. There was plenty of catching up going on. Former members have moved away and married and hadn’t seen each other for a long time.”
The Girls’ Brigade is open to youngsters of all ages and for many it’s something that stays with them for life. After finishing school members can train to be group leaders.
Christine said: “We’ve had some who have come right through. They’ve joined in primary one and just never left.”
There were old photos and photo albums in the hall which former members couldn’t help but reminisce over. One of the most striking changes has been the change in uniform.
These days the girls get practical jumpers and polo shirts while the attire from days gone by included more formal hats, gloves, skirts and blazers.
The future of the brigade is also now in safer hands with two new girls joining up on the night.
Christine said: “It was great that we got new girls. To get the company up to 40 girls would be brilliant.”